South Africa vs India 2023: South Africa’s strongest predicted playing XI against India

South Africa are gearing up for the first game of the three-match ODI series against India on December 17, at the New Wanderers Stadium, in Johannesburg. Both teams recently concluded a three-match T20 series, which ended in a 1-1 draw due to the first match being washed out by rain.

The Proteas are heading into this ODI without some key players who performed exceptionally well in the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2023. They have shown great prowess in the 50-over format in recent times and would be aiming to carry forward their positive momentum into this series. Let's take a closer look at the predicted playing XI for the Proteas in the first ODI of the series.

Here's South Africa's Predicted XI against India:

Openers: Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi

A seasoned ODI campaigner, Reeza Hendricks, brings reliability and a talent for building partnerships at the top. His ability to anchor innings and switch gears when needed makes him a valuable asset. Hendricks played a pivotal role in the World Cup match, scoring 85 runs and leading his team to a commanding 229-run victory against England. He looked good in the recently concluded T20I series as well and would want to continue his good form.

The inclusion of Tony de Zorzi reflects the foresight of the South African selectors, indicating their commitment to building a team for the future. Tony, a left-handed opening batter, stands out when in full swing. His elegant cover drives and front-foot pull shots make him a delight to watch, and he is undoubtedly eager to kick off the series on a positive note.

Middle Order: Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller

Consistently reliable, Rassie van der Dussen is set to hold the crucial number three position. His impressive form with the bat during the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2023, marked by several brilliant innings, establishes him as a formidable force. Van der Dussen's ability to anchor the innings and play attacking shots when needed makes him a genuine threat against any opposition.

Leading the charge as South Africa's captain, Aiden Markram injects both leadership and aggressive batting prowess into the middle order. With a robust technique and the capability to accelerate innings, Markram stands as a pivotal player for the team.

Heinrich Klaasen, a versatile batter and wicketkeeper, further strengthens the middle order with his aggressive approach and adept finishing skills, adapting seamlessly to match situations. Seasoned campaigner David Miller, renowned for his explosive batting skills, brings a wealth of experience to the middle order and can single-handedly alter the course of a game.

All-rounder: Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj

Andile Phehlukwayo and Keshav Maharaj are entrusted with the all-rounder responsibilities. Maharaj etched his name in memory with a remarkable and gritty knock against Pakistan in the ODI World Cup 2023, steering his team to victory alongside the last batter, Tabraiz Shamsi. Beyond his batting prowess, Maharaj's bowling skills pose a formidable challenge for the Indian team.

In the role of supporting all-rounder, Phehlukwayo, a long-standing member of the team, has yet to showcase significant performances over the years. Despite this, he possesses the skills and is undoubtedly eager to make valuable contributions with both bat and ball in this series.

Bowlers: Tabraiz Shamsi, Nandre Burger, Lizaad Williams

Injecting youth and excitement into the fast-bowling lineup is Nandre Burger, a promising talent with the ability to surprise batters with pace and bounce. Impressively, he demonstrated his skills in the last T20I, consistently bowling over 145 and leaving a mark. Eager to showcase his prowess with the ball, Burger adds a dynamic dimension to the pace attack.

Providing support in this role is Lizaad Williams, a bowler with experience and a knack for consistently maintaining a precise line and length. Williams's ability to cause problems for batters makes him a valuable asset to the team. Hence, the pacer will be the key to containing the scoring rate of Team India in the upcoming ODI game.

Heading the spin department for the Proteas is none other than Tabraiz Shamsi, the frontline spinner, who will lead the attack. Supported by Keshav Maharaj, Shamsi's recent impressive form has been a highlight. In the last T20I series, he showcased his prowess, and the team will be relying on him to continue his excellent form with the ball in the upcoming matches.

South Africa's Predicted XI for 1st ODI:

Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram(c), Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lizaad Williams

Also Check: India’s strongest predicted playing XI against South Africa